Exam Pass Notes

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Use these notes for quick revision before the assessment. The course gives practical, UK-wide guidance: communicate in ways the person can use, record what works, protect hearing aids, and escalate when hearing or communication needs are not being met. Examples from the England Accessible Information Standard and CQC guidance illustrate these everyday care actions.

Key points to remember

• Do not assume all deaf people communicate in the same way: needs may include BSL, lip-reading, written prompts, hearing aids, loop systems, or a combination of methods.
• BSL is a distinct language: written English will not be an adequate substitute for a Deaf BSL user.
• Ask and record what works: identify, document, flag, share, meet and review each person's communication needs.
• Get attention before speaking: face the resident, keep your mouth visible, speak clearly and naturally, reduce background noise and be patient.
• Do not assume silence or poor behaviour is refusal or aggression: first check whether the resident heard and understood.
• Know the main hearing-aid types: behind-the-ear (BTE), RITE/open-fit, in-ear styles, body-worn aids; note that implants are different devices.
• Protect hearing aids carefully: store them safely, label them, and check bedding, towels, nightwear and laundry before items leave the room.
• Do not assume hearing aids remove all communication barriers: a resident using aids may still need lip-reading, a loop, better lighting or another communication method.
• Escalate significant concerns: sudden hearing loss, ear pain or discharge, repeated device failure, or complex communication needs require prompt action.
• Repeated loss or denial of hearing aids can be a care-quality or safeguarding issue: this is especially true when it contradicts the person's care plan.